Dreams Do Come True
Research Specialist Riya Mukherjee! My joy knew no bounds when I first received my appointment letter. I finally got my dream job in the Mumbai ETF, had lovely colleagues and a mentoring boss. If that was not enough, a new member joined us the same day I was officially on my first case. First impressions really had a new meaning for our encounter. And by encounter, I really mean an encounter. I had almost shot him. Instincts can fail miserably at times. Long story short he was the worst person to get acquainted with and he was there to fill in the place of a typical khadoos boss as our second-in-command, ACP Arjun Rawte. Whatever! I just stayed silent and did my work around him, not giving him unnecessary chances to scold me unlike my not- so-common-sensical colleagues and friends.
A few days later I came to know that my khadoos boss was already married and that his wife had been murdered. The second instance of a bad encounter with him. One of the worst days in office, like really horrible! The dictionary probably doesn't have a word for it. The worst part of my guilt was that everyone misunderstood him, including me. Who can be completely normal after such an incident? As days passed I really started liking him. He might have been the same old khadoos but I could see the pain hidden cleverly by him in the form of anger. Yes he was rude but never uncompassionate. We had even started having formal conversations. For some weird reason my heart leaped every time I saw him. I wished so bad for a fairy-tale But I knew it wasn't meant to be. It never could. My fate was going to carry me somewhere else and I knew it.
Cut to the time when the city was under siege of a deadly virus, Xora 2. The entire team was on its toes. People were dying. There was tremendous political pressure as well. Finally we were able to zero in our culprit. Unfortunately we were late, he had already left to mix the virus in the dam which provided water the whole city. I was caught, on gun point and my hero was in front of me pointing a gun to the man who was forcing me to mix the virus in the dam. A dreadful fear came over me, I was totally blank. He was worried as well. I could see it on his face. Somehow a small strength built up inside of me. It was now or never! I closed my eyes and swallowed the bacteria. A gunshot later, I was in his arms. I couldn't have asked for a better death. What could be better than seeing the person you connected the most with in your last breath? I decided I was going to thank God when I met him. However, it seemed that He had different plans. Arjun sir and the my team managed to get me to the hospital in time and got a blood transfusion done. I survived, I had beaten all odds to become one of the few survivors of the incident.
Though I'd rather I was dead. My few days of joy were about to come to an end. My parents had got tired of my job and wanted to marry me off. I didn't want to...I had barely started my career but I knew it was no use talking to them. They were quite orthodox, the society and their image in front of it always came before me let alone my happiness. I was to keep my head down, talk softly and obey everyone whether it carried logic or not. Thankfully, none of my teammates saw their real colours during my recovery period. They were the perfect parents anyone could have when they were out. At home however, it was different story. I was the quietest person in the whole house who talked only when needed, who answered in monosyllables and tried to stay in my room as much as I could. My exile came to an end after 8 months when I could re-join office again. No, I wasn't asked to resign because that would spoil their image of prim and proper parents who did anything and everything for their child. However, I was warned that I would have to resign after I got married because apparently girls shouldn't work after marriage. They started searching for a groom for me and soon found one.
One fine day I go back home and find a unfamiliar family sitting in my house who my father introduces me to as my in-laws. They had even fixed the marriage date! I was internally shocked but managed to greet them politely. My mother gestured me to touch their feet. My mind was screaming, I didn't even know their bloody names and I was touching their feet and taking blessings? I felt like running away somewhere but my feet stood rooted to the ground. I stood silently near my parents who were seated on a sofa opposite them. It was then that I made eye-contact with my Fianc'. I hated the vibes I was getting from him. Something just didn't feel quite right and I looked away which apparently he took for me blushing and smiled. I just wanted them to leave so I could run off to my room. Unfortunately I was stuck over there for another 2 hours with Manan (his name which I heard) and his parents.
I rushed off to office early the next day and my spirits lifted themselves as soon as they saw Arjun sir had already arrived.
Me: good morning Arjun sir!
Arjun: good morning Riya, jaldi aa gayi aaj?
His wish really made my mornings good, especially because I was the only one in the whole office to get a return wish from him. We had developed a kind of friendship in the past 8 months. As I had said he was rude but never uncompassionate. There was something in him which really touched my heart. He was caring in his own unique way.
Me: ji, woh thoda sa kaam tha isliye.
He nodded and got back to his signature cutting as I took my seat opposite him and opened my file thinking that I only came early so I could run away from home. Life can be pretty weird at times. Normal people go home for peace and me? I preferred office especially when he was around. How I wished that he wasn't married and not from the department. Maybe then we could have had an arranged marriage. I didn't care that his heart and home and belonged to someone else. I really respected him for the love he had for his wife but parents? Ugh!! Who had the capacity and more importantly, guts to explain them?
Arjun waved a hand in front of me: Riya?
That's when I realised I was staring directly at him: I'm so sorry! Mera dhyaan nahi tha (I dropped my gaze to the table) I...I didn't mean to stare.
Arjun: it's okay
I stealthily looked at him. He was engrossed in his world but I was sure I saw a smile on his face which disappeared before I could comprehend it. Him smiling was like the 8th wonder of the world...non-existent.
I really wasn't in a mood to go home after the day was over but unfortunately I had to. The only good part of the journey was Arjun sir, who used to drop me off every day. However I didn't dare let the car go too close to the apartment. It was goodbye from the main road itself. Mom would get me killed if she saw I was alone with a guy. Usually I had some or the other topic on which I used to talk to him and when you're working in ETF you get weird cases quite frequently. But that day my mind was only on marriage which was in two months' time. In two months my career would be over, no more office, no more Arjun sir, I would probably not see him again for the rest of my life and I was going to share my life with a complete stranger who gave me creeps when he was around me.
Arjun: kya hua? Aaj koyi sawaal nahi hai? Sab kuch samaj gayi ya fir din bhar kaam mein dhyaan hi nahi tha?
Me: nahi...woh... aise hi
Arjun: everything alright?
Me: ha sab theek hai bas thodi thakaan si lag rahi hai.
Arjun pulled up at the usual place he dropped her: ghar jaakar so jaana
I nodded as I got down: thanks! Good night!
Arjun: see you tomorrow.
I left after giving him a smile. All of this was going to end. My eyes moistened without my permission. I brushed my thoughts aside and went home. I texted him that I had reached before ringing the doorbell. I had lovely plans to drop on my bed, unfortunately a shocking face opened the door. It was him! Apparently he had come to take me out. I hid the disappointment and unwillingness as I requested a little time to freshen up and change. I couldn't believe it at first, my father was letting me go out! For leisure! At night! With a guy! And he said so that we could know each other better before marriage. Anger rose in me, they should have thought of that before fixing the goddamn date! As it is even if I didn't like him, they weren't going to call off the alliance were they? No! I would be required to adjust and adapt because reality check I am a girl! I really wanted to tear something apart but that would only land me in more trouble so I quietly got ready and went outside. Surprise! Manan started staring at me like psychopath stared at his victim. I wanted to hide myself somewhere.
He started asking me questions about myself, my likes, dislikes job etc. which I answered with utmost caution because I didn't want him to rat out anything in front of parents for which I would get a lecture even accidently. It became a frequent thing then onwards. He would randomly pop into the house and take me out. I hated the way he looked at me more so I hated that I was unable to do anything about it. I was behaving like a typical damsel in distress and was getting increasingly enraged day by day. The only relief I had was at work, then again the thought of leaving it all forever scared me. I tried to make the most of my days there, spending quality time with my friends and of course Arjun sir.
It got late that day. We were solving a crucial case and finally the culprit was caught late in the night. Me and Arjun sir were required to hand over a witness who was in the interrogation room to the local police and went back to office as they others left for home. We finished the formalities with the local police and stood in the compound till they left. Suddenly it started raining, we ran back to doorway to shelter ourselves and looked on from the tiny space.
Me(happily): mausam ki pehli baarish! Aur hum bheeg bhi gaye.
Arjun: hm...pehli baarish ka maza hi alag hota hai
I was surprised to see him express so openly. We were standing pretty close to each other and suddenly I noticed his hand come towards my face. I was more than shocked. He gently shifted the wet strand of hair behind me ear. My body turned hot on the inside while my mind started screaming. There was a different look in his eyes, something intense was harbouring at that moment. He stepped closer to me cornering me to the door and waited. Me? I was completely lost in him. I should've stopped him or given him a negative signal but I was unable to. I closed my eyes the second I felt his hand on my waist. I could feel him closing the gap between us. All my life I had been craving for affection and now when it was coming from the person who mattered most in my life, I refused to let go of it. I wanted to forget my restriction and inhibitions for once. His lips had almost touched mine when I remembered my marriage and immediately stepped away from him, shocked at what I was going to do. My tear gates opened instantly, I Could Not Cheat Him!
Me: I'm sorry, I'm so sorry...I ...meri shaadi honewaali hai, main ye nah kar sakti
He didn't say a word but just looked at me.
Me: I'm really very sorry, main jaanti hun maine aapka dobara aapka dil tod diya par...main... (I tried hard to control myself and not breakdown) please mujhe maaf kar dena...I'm sorry.
I wanted to explain myself more, tell him that it was not his fault and only mine but was unable to. I wanted to scream that I was forced to marry but my voice box had fell silent. I turned and started walking outside. I didn't care to wipe off my tears as it was raining. A hand caught my elbow unawares at the gate. I looked back to find that it was him.
Arjun: tumhe is waqt baarish mein transport nahi milega, main ghar chod deta hu
His words only increased my guilt: please let me go
Arjun(sadly): I am...bas akele mat jaao is waqt.
I couldn't refuse him. It was the worse ride I ever had with him. I thanked him softly and left without wasting another moment. I ran to my room as soon as I reached home under the pretext of changing and locked it before throwing myself on the bed. I muffled my sobs with the help of my pillow as I cursed my fate for the happenings. Why did he have to develop feelings for me? A girl who didn't even have the courage to refuse her parents for an alliance she didn't like. Why did have to get heart-broken again? I didn't even know if could meet his eyes anymore. He was the one person who I had blind faith in and now? Now our relation was going to end on such a tragic note.
I was afraid to step into office the next day. I was scared to meet him but I had to. Gathering all the courage inside of me I entered. To my surprise he behaved perfectly normal with me, just as he had before. The again, he had always been a gentleman. I felt relieved and guilty at the same time. Not wanting to re-open his wounds I pretended to be normal as well. It was as if that incident had never taken place, yet I knew that it would remain etched in our memories forever. For him, it would probably be heart-break but for me they would be the best and worst few moments of my life. Best because for once I had felt true affection and worst because I did the worst thing possible to him.
It was another date night in a 5 star hotel where Manan had booked the whole restaurant for some weird reason. I was getting worse vibes than usual. I refused to make eye contact with him but he continued to stare at me with an emotion I was afraid to read. As our dinner reached to an end, I was getting more and more anxious to get out of there. I got up from my place as soon as the bill was paid. The waiter asked us politely if we had a good evening.
Me: yes, thank you
He left after a formal we hope to see you again'. Manan caught my hand as soon as he left.
Manan(aggressively): tumhe usse baat karne ki kya zaroorat thi?
I subtly tried to free my hand: kya...kya matlab? Main toh sirf...
His expression changed suddenly as he let go of my hand and placed it on my shoulder: I'm sorry, woh kya haina tumhare man mein bhale kuch na ho lekin unke man mein kya hai kuch keh nahi sakte na? I mean tumhe unke muh nahi lagna chahiye (he came closer to me) chalo chodo, agli baar dhyaan rakhna...waise (he started caressing my arm) tum aaj kuch zyaada hi khubsurat lag rahi ho.
I knew exactly where this was going and didn't like it one bit. I tried to free myself from his hold but he tightened his grip. Unable to take it anymore I stepped back sharply pushing him away.
Me: Manan...please I'm not comfortable...kya hum...hume ghar chalna chahiye, late ho raha hai. I tried to walk it off.
His aggressiveness suddenly returned and pulled me to him trying to kiss me and force himself on me: Us Waiter Se Baat Kar Sakti Ho Tum Lekin Mujhse Uncomfortable Feel Kar Rahi Ho?!?!
I had had enough: Manan!
I pushed him away and slapped him. He stumbled behind. I regretted my action the second I saw his expressions turn into a beast's. I stepped back in horror.
Manan was enraged beyond rhyme and reason: TUMNE MUJHE THAPAD MAARA? MANAN DESAI KO?
He came towards me the same way a predator comes towards his prey. I gathered myself and slapped him again.
Me: Enough!! Bahot hua! Stay away from me warna woh haal karungi ki zindgi bhar mere naam se bhi daroge!!!
I left the place immediately leaving him behind and didn't stop walking before I was out of the premises. Though I had managed to push him off, I was hell worried about what I would do once I got home. I took support of the wall and stood there trying to calm myself down. All sorts of thoughts were running through my head. I could not live with this man even for a second forget about spending my whole life with him. But what would I tell my parents? Would they believe me? What if Manan became all like a gentleman in front of them and proved me wrong? Or...or what if they scolded me thinking that I was characterless and shouldn't have let him near me? I couldn't understand anything but I couldn't hide this from them either. I was not marrying this man and that was final! I calmed myself thinking that the maximum I would get was a few taunts and scoldings. That wasn't a problem. I was used to all of that. Yes, I will tell them. I stayed there for around 20 minutes trying to gather the courage in my body and then hailed a cab home. I hesitated to ring the doorbell. It was Now or Never! I comforted myself and pressed the doorbell.
Mom opened the door. She was looking angrily at me. I couldn't understand why but I had more important things to talk.
I stepped into the house: Maa! Dad kaha hai, mujhe...
I stopped dead in my tracks...there he was standing beside my father who was looking very angry. I knew I was screwed. Manan had definitely cooked something up and turned them against me. I cursed myself for not getting home sooner. My father looked menancingly at me. I had never felt so afraid my whole life. I tried to speak but no words came out of my mouth.
Dad: kya tumne Manan par haath uthaya?
My brain was firing yet I wasn't able to answer anything.
Dad: JAWAB DO MUJHE!!!
Me: h...a...
He didn't wait to hear me out and slapped me. I was shocked and tried to reason with him.
Me: dad, aap meri baat toh suniye...
Dad: Kuch Nahi Sunna Mujhe! Tumhari Himmat Kaise Hui Us Par Haath Uthane Ki??? Ekto Waiter Ke Saath Meethi-Meethi Baatein Karti Ho Upar Se...
Me(tearfully): Dad, mera aur waiter ka kya lena dena??
Manan came forward: Mujhe Thapad Maarti Ho Aur Fir Puchti Ho Ki Kya Lena Dena Hai??? Dikhayi Nahi Deta Kya Mujhe?? Saying so he slapped me too.
I was enraged till the point tears had started flowing. How dare he? And my parents looked on as if it was my mistake.
I raised my hand ready to punch the living daylights out of him: How dare...
But my father caught it and slapped me hard making me fall to the ground: RIYA!! BEHAVE YOURSELF!! Yahi Din Dekhne Ke Liye Tumhe Paala Hai Humne??
My mother added fuel to the fire: Kise Samjha Rahe Hai Aap? Maine Toh Pehle Hi Kaha Tha Ki Ise Ghar Ke Baahar Kaam Mat Karne Dijiye. Pata Nahi Kiski Sangat Ne Bhusa Bhar Diya Hai Iske Dimag Mein! Itni Bigad Gayi Hai Ki Pucho Mat!! Are!! Pati Hai Woh Tumhara!! KUCH SHARAM HAI YA NAHI TUMHARE ANDAR!!
My tears flowed continuously hearing their statements but I had to tell them the truth.
I spoke between the sobs: Pati bana toh nahi na ab tak?...Usne...Usne mere saath...zabardasti karne ki koshish ki...isliye maine...
Dad(furiously): Isliye Tumne Use Thapad Maar Diya?
Maa: Maine Tumhe Samjhaya Tha Na Ki Woh Tumhara Pati Hai Aur Use Har Haal Mein Khush Rakhna Tumhara Farz Hai? KAHA THA YA NAHI??
I was shocked. Instead of telling Manan they were accusing me of not keeping him happy? So what was I supposed to do? Let him do whatever he wants? Whether I want it or not? Whether I feel comfortable or not? But my night was about to take turn for the worst.
My father turned to him and coaxed: Manan I apologise for Riya's behavior. Pata nahi ise kya ho gaya hai. Pehle toh bilcul aisi nahi thi. Sabki baat maanti thi. Tum apna dil chota mat karo. Tumhe jo karna hai karo, hum nahi rokenge aur na hi (he glared at me) Riya tumhe apnese dur karegi!
Manan smiled: thank you Uncle, main ise room mein le jau?
Dad: beta tumhe jo karna hai karo
I was horrified! I couldn't believe My Dad was letting him do this. Manan looked at me the same was he was looking before. He grabbed my hand and forced me to stand.
I pleaded and begged: no...please...
Dad: Riya!
I looked at him for help as Manan dragged me away but he didn't have an ounce of regret on his face. his expression remained the same. I looked at my mother but she only glared at me. Manan threw me on the bed and locked the door.
I couldn't understand what was happening. My body felt numb. Their words kept ringing in my ears. "Pata Nahi Kiski Sangat Ne Bhusa Bhar Diya Hai Iske Dimag Mein!
"use har haal mein khush rakhna tumhara farz hai
"tumhe jo karna hai karo
"hum nahi rokenge
I wasn't even able to protest when he came on top of me. Instead I just lay there...lifeless. Not feeling, not doing and definitely not understanding, just staying there...on the bed, while he had his way with me. I felt disgusted at his touch yet I couldn't push him away. He raped me and my parents were okay with that? Because I was going to get married to him? My consent didn't matter? He was allowed to satiate his lust and I was accused of being spoilt because I didn't give in?
He left in the middle of the night after he was satisfied. I didn't move a muscle. He hadn't even bothered to cover me with the blanket but I was too devastated to care. Forget sleep I didn't even blink the whole night. The sun rays entered through the window bringing me back to senses, well, not entirely. I didn't know what to do? Or where to go. Mechanically I got up from the bed and got ready for office. I wasn't going to be able to think while I was there. I took my belongings and went out where my mom was serving breakfast.
Mom(sternly): tum firse late uthi? Subah-subah 100 kaam hote hai aur tum ho ki naashta banane ke liye bhi nahi uth sakti? Shaadi ke baad bhi aise hi chalta raha toh sab hum par ungli uthayenge, waqt rehte sudhar jao! Samjhi?!?!
I Didn't quite get sense of what she was talking about: main office jaa rahi hun, thoda kaam hai, shayad shaam ko late ho jaaye
Mom: ha ab toh tumhe office jaana hai, office ka kaam yaad rehta hai lekin ghar ka nahi!!!
I walked towards the door without giving any sort of reaction. Dad was busy reading the newspaper. He didn't even look up once. I finally heard his voice when I opened the door.
Dad: Riya shakal theek karo apni, maatam nahi hai ghar mein jo tum itna mara hua chehra lekar ghum rahi ho.
I automatically forced a smile: sorry. And left.
I didn't go to office straight away. My mind was blocked. I roamed outside the premises of the office and came across a paan shop. A few guys were standing there smoking early in the morning. My legs automatically started walking towards them and asked the paanwaala for a cigarette. He looked at me as if I was an alien.
Me(irritated): dekh kya rahe ho? Sunayi nahi diya kya?
He quietly gave me a single roll and gestured towards the lighter hanging by a thread from the metal rod which held up the asbestos. I grabbed hold of it and lit the white cylinder. My hand brought it to my lips and took a drag. The smoke agitated me. I coughed a little. I sat on the bench and took another strong drag. God! My mind started clearing again. This was why people liked smoking. It really was a heavenly feeling. It felt so good. The previous night started flashing before my eyes. I started getting angry and frustrated. I could feel the remnants of that bas***d's touch on my skin. My Parent's voices filled my head. Their words started stabbing me.
I punched the bench in order to restrain myself and smoked my cigarette. A few strong drags calmed me down.
Me mv "Fine then! Aap chahte haina ki main use khush rakhu? Toh theek hai main use khush rakhungi. Use jo karna hai karne dungi. Main bhi dekhti hun ki yeh shaadi kitne din tikti hai. Jab uska dil mujhse bhar jaayega aur mujhe chod dega tab main dekhti hun ki aap dono kya karte hai? Use mera rape karna haina? Karne do! Jitna dard sehna pade utna sahungi lekin aap dono ko agar maine jhukaya nahi toh samaj lena ki main mar gayi!!!
I had my goal in front of me and I knew I had to do absolutely nothing for it. Manan wasn't going to mend his ways. Everything would happen on itself. I finished my cigarette and bought a whole packet along with a lighter and shoved it into my purse. My mind was relaxed following the soothing effect of the cigarette. I went to office to follow my routine and my eyes were greeted by a familiar sight. Involuntarily my eyes turned a little moist.
Me: good morning Arjun sir
Arjun: Good morning Riya
I didn't know what came over me and I hugged him. Thankfully nobody was present there. He hugged me back but I could feel the awkwardness he was feeling.
Arjun: sab theek hai?
I broke off: ha, main kuch dino baad office nahi aaungi
Arjun(taken aback): kyun?
Me: woh main shaadi ke baad shift ho rahi hun isliye
Arjun(sadly): oh, kaha...kaha shift ho rahi ho?
Me: woh...US
Arjun: oh
Me: Rathore sir aa gaye kya? Mujhe unhe bhi inform karna hai aur puchna bhi hai ki resignation kab submit karna hai
Arjun: uh, ha...woh aa gaya hai, cabin mein hai
Me: thank you!
Days started passing like that, I tried to remain as normal as I could in office. For some reason Arjun sir had started keeping an eye on me. Either he wasn't convinced with my lie or it was just an emotional reaction to me leaving the office and I didn't know what was worse. I tried to keep my mind off him. As expected Manan didn't mend his ways. He looked for every opportunity to grope me. I neither encouraged him nor stopped him despite being disgusted at his touch.
My nights had turned to nightmares. I shifted in my sleep. Twisted and turned as the horrible sights kept replaying in my head. I woke up with a start. Goosebumps had given up on me. I was sweating and grappling for breath. My sight fell on the drawer by the bedside. An urge to free myself came over me. I opened it and removed my gun. The gun clicked as I loaded it. I put it to my head and closed my eyes. "Pata Nahi Kiski Sangat Ne Bhusa Bhar Diya Hai Iske Dimag Mein!
"use har haal mein khush rakhna tumhara farz hai
"tumhe jo karna hai karo
"hum nahi rokenge
I wanted to squeeze the trigger but...couldn't. Frustrated! I threw my gun away and left my room. I slowly turned the knob of my parent's room and peeked inside. They were sleeping peacefully. Seeing them enjoying their sleep I got even more angry.
Me mv "meri zindgi ka mazaak bana kar aapko chain ki neend aa rahi haina? Jis tarah meri raaton ko aapne narak banaya usi tarah main aapki zindgi ko narak bana dungi. Bas ek baar ye shaadi ho jaaye aur Manan mujhse bore ho jaaye, uske baad aap log royenge! aur main chain ki saans lungi! Aapki wajah se mujhe Arjun sir ka dil todna pada, iski keemat toh aapko chukani hi padegi!!
I left after closing the door softly and went back to my room and locked it. Opening my cupboard I fumbled for the packet of cigarettes and my lighter. I lit one and opened the window to puff out the smoke and continued smoking all through the night.
It wasn't long before Manan got bolder. One fine day he decided to pick me up from office. I was casually chatting with Shree as the 5 of us left when I heard my name being called. Needless to say I was shocked on seeing him there. I rushed towards him before he could many sort of scene. He hugged me with his usual lusty touch.
Me: tum...tum yaha?
Manan ran a finger over my cheek: aise hi paas se guzar raha tha socha tumhe pick karte chalu
His gaze fell behind at the four men. They too were looking back in the same direction. Trying not to be rude I introduced them to each other. I worriedly looked at Arjun sir, not sure on how he would react to my so-called Fianc but he was looking, no wait! he was only staring at Manan with the same look on his face which he has when he is scanning someone. I didn't want him to do that, what if Manan suddenly reacted and hurt him? I quickly excused and left with Manan. He didn't speak a word during the journey. I was relieved and a little afraid. What if it was the silence before the storm? Turned out, I was right. A s soon as we reached the parking lot in the basement of my apartment he twisted my wrist. I shrieked.
Manan: Jhut Bola Tumne Mujhse?? Huh??
Me: maine...maine tumse koyi jhut nahi bola
Manan: Jhut Nahi Bola? Tumne Mujhse Kaha Tha Ki Tumhare Saath Do Aur Ladkiya Kaam Karti Hai ETF Mein...Kaha Thi Woh???
Me: woh...woh main...woh dono already nikal gayi thi
Manan twisted my arm further: Toh Phir Tum Waha Kyun Thi? Aur Us, Ladke Se Baat Kyun Kar Rahi Thi??
Me: main toh case ke baare mein...bat kar rahi thi...bas nikal hi rahi thi
Manan: Riya Agar Tum Jhut Bol Rahi Hona Toh Main...
Me: main...main sach keh rahi hun...maine koyi jhut nahi bola...sach mein
He let go of me and suddenly pulled me into his lap. His expression changed and he caressed my wrist which had got his nail marks: tum bhi na Riya...khamakha mujhe gussa dilati rehti ho. Chalo chodo woh sab, hum apne par concentrate karte hai.
I hated him! I hated him from the core of my heart! Him and his bloody disgusting touch!!! But I didn't stop him, I would do that only when I've seen my parents hang their head with shame, when they screamed and begged I will regain my strength!
I went to office early the next day. I had started doing that quite a lot nowadays, maybe because time was running out or maybe because I could spend some silent time with Arjun sir all alone. To my surprise he called me out to the balcony for a cup of coffee. I wondered what had happened suddenly. My thoughts were racing trying to figure out what he wanted to say to me. Was it about that night? I hoped it wasn't, I wouldn't be able to break him again.
Arjun finally spoke: Riya, kya tum us ladke ke saath khush ho?
I was taken aback by the sudden question: kyun?...I mean aap aisa kyun puch rahe hai?
Arjun: mujhe woh kuch theek nahi lagta, ajeeb si feeling aati hai usse sach kahu toh ghin si aati hai, isliye puch raha hun, I think tumhe ek baar check karna chahiye
I knew he was telling the truth and I had to hide it but I couldn't deny the fact straightaway either. He knew I trusted him blindly.
Me: aisa kuch dhyaan mein toh nahi aaya, but I'll check. Kuch hua toh batati hun
Arjun nodded. Great! Now even he knew. Fortunately, the day of my departure was coming soon.
It was my last day at office, a week before my marriage when I received a text from Manan.
Manan-7 pm Sea blue banquet hall. I've informed your parents you'll be spending the night with me. See you!
I threw my phone on the desk. bas***d! He had to plan this again. That too only a week before the wedding. I stormed off to the washroom to calm myself with a cigarette. Being the only girl in the team I had my own advantages. I had the washroom all to myself.
The day passed quickly much to my dread. I went home and changed into an anarkali. My dressing style had changed drastically when I was around the filthy animal but it didn't anything to protect me. Ugh! Hell with it! As it is I'm not going to do anything till my parents got a taste of their medicine. Why did it matter?
The banquet hall was empty but decorated. A candle-lit table for prepared for the two of us. Music was playing in the background and a mattress was placed on one side. What was a romantic date for anyone was another day when I was going to crush my soul. Our dinner wasn't that smooth with him trying to touch me all the time. He increased the volume of the music system and took me for a dance. It wasn't even 2 minutes into the dance before he caught hold of me, he had the power of making me feel what I hadn't felt this intensely for anyone...loathe! and abhor! He threw me on the bed and got over me. His hand caught hold of my dupatta and threw it away. I closed my eyes waiting for the worst...again. I felt his lips on mine but the next second a powerful force threw him away from me.
I sat back up straight shocked at what had occurred. As if that was not enough I saw a fuming Arjun sir in between me and Manan who was thrown on the ground due to the attack. Sir had his back to me. Manan was enraged.
Manan stumbled back to his feet: TUMHARI HIMMAT KAISE HUI YAHA AANE KI?? WHO THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU ARE??
I could physically feel Arjun sir's anger. He was enraged beyond his threshold to control it. Without speaking a word he caught hold of Manan's collar and started beating him black and blue. I could see Manan tried to fight back but when his opponent was Arjun sir? That too such an angry Arjun sir...he didn't even have a negative percentage in his favour. After all, he was my hero. I smiled unknowingly as I enjoyed him getting his bones broken and face get bloody. Arjun sir beat him till he was unconscious and when his body fell to the floor only then did he calm down.
To my horror I realised I was next! I was going to have the worst conversation with him no wait! It wasn't going to be a conversation it was going to be the worst scolding I would receive in my life! He looked at me. Instead of coming towards me he first picked up my dupatta and then came to me. He bent on his knees and securely draped the dupatta around my shoulder.
I couldn't hold myself any longer: aapko kaise pata chala?
Arjun(calmly): jab tumhe message aaya toh tumhara gussa dekhkar dar laga, upar se fir tum aadhe ghante tak washroom mein bhaag gayi, toh maine tumhara phone check kiya
I lowered my eyes without responding. I was very much surprised to see him talk so warmly
Arjun: kabse chal raha hai yeh sab?
Me:...agar...aaj aap nahi aate toh... Chouthe baar
Arjun(anguished): tumne parents ko bhi nahi bataya Riya?
It was a statement more than a question. His voice was still calm but I could feel the difficulty he was having to control himself: baat meri Manan ko mana karne ki nahi hai...par us ijazat ki hai jisne mujhse use thapad maarne ka haq cheen liya
He was visibly shocked but still came back to me: ye haq is kadar cheena nahi jaa sakta, kya haasil hua tumhe Riya?
I looked up in surprise to him now: haasil hua. Character certificate jo mila, saare taane band, meri wajahse aane waali musibatein band, bigdi hui ladki sudhar gayi aur rahi meri personal faayde ki baat toh woh bhi hota, shaadi ke baad! Aapko toh pata hai iske jaise admi kaise hote hai, kuch hi dino mein iska mujhse man bhar jaata aur fir...fir mujhe chod kar kisi aur ko apna shikaar banata aur tab woh dono khoon ke aansu rote. I became their perfect daughter and I will crush that image! Manan made me fall into this, he'll be the one to get me out as well!!
Arjun stood up straight and offered me a hand: main tumhe...abhi isi waqt is narak se baahar nikal sakta hun Riya
I smiled bitterly: main jaanti hun
Standing up I went to the table and fished out my Marlboro packet and lighter and lit one cigarette. I puffed out the smoke as I saw Manan's half dead body.
Me: par agar mujhe aisa karna hota toh main bahot pehle kar chuki hoti
I guess I was really testing his patience. I didn't want to but it was just happening. He marched next to me and threw away my cigarette.
Arjun(pained): Riya please stop! Apne Aap Ko Torture Mat Karo!! Unhe Samajna Hota Toh Tumhare Saath Ye Sab Kabhi Nahi Hota!!! Band Karo Yeh Sab!!
I could feel myself getting vulnerable by his words but I didn't have the courage to let all of it go. The man I loved was right in front of me, ready to accept me even after all the hell I had been through. I couldn't hurt him anymore but was still reluctant to forget everything. My head started spinning. Frustrated and angry on myself I lit another roll to calm myself down. I was about to smoke it when Arjun sir grabbed the flamed lighter in his hand.
Me(shocked): Sir! Sambhal kar jal jaayega!!
He threw the lighter and caught me by the shoulders(angrily): Meri Ungliyaan Jalne Par Agar Tumhe Itni Takleef Ho Rahi Hai Toh Socho Ki Tumhe Khud Apne Haathon Se Apni Ruh Ko Jalate Dekh Mujhe Kitna Dard Ho Raha Hai!!! Tumhari Is Badle Ki Aag Mein Sirf Tum Jal Rahi Ho Riya! koi aur nahi!!!
I couldn't hold myself anymore and collapsed in his arms. I hadn't shed a tear in all those days but that day, at that moment, in his arms...I cried my heart out. He just held me tight, letting me cry as much as I wanted to occasionally kissing my head to console me. It was an eternity before my tears stopped. I was still hiccupping and trying to control my sobs at the end. He let go of me and got me a glass of water. I drank it without a word.
He offered his hand again: aao mere saath, na tumhe kisi ko explanation dene ki zaroorat hai naa hi kisi ki ijazat ki, main kisi ko tumhari taraf aankh uthakar bhi nahi dekhna dunga
Me(tearfully): vaada?
Arjun smiled: vaada
I placed my hand on his and he hugged me firmly before taking me away from the place. My head and heart finally felt light. Lighter than even the cigarettes could get my mind to be. I opened the window and took a deep breath taking in the freedom. A new life breathed into me. I removed my packet of cigarettes and threw it out the window onto the road. Arjun sir smiled at my action. He stopped the car at a temple. I looked questioningly at him. He quietly held my hand and leaded me up the steps. The temple was empty. We stood near the idol and he turned towards me.
Arjun: main tumhe vachan deta hun Riya, ki aaj se, isi waqt se zindgi bhar ke liye tumhare maan samman ki raksha karunga, tumhe humesha khush rakhunga aur kabhi bhi tumhara saath nahi chodunga.
I teared up at his words: main bhi aapko vachan deti hun ki tan man aur dhan se aapko samarpit rahungi, aapke sukh aur dukh dono mein aapke saath rahungi aur har paristithi mein aapki taakat banungi
He smiled and took seven rounds around the idol with me before taking the mangalsutra from the plate at the idol's feet and fastening it around my neck and filling my partition with vermillion. I t was a dream come true for me. I was in a trance unable to believe all of that was actually happening. I was afraid to blink lest it all vanished.
However, I realised it was all real when he stopped again at my apartment. Not to the road, he got the car inside the gate. I looked at him horrified.
Arjun: chale?
Riya(afraid): nahi...main...main unhe face nahi kar sakti...they'll kill me aur Manan...aap...unhone aapko kuch...
Arjun: Riya! (He held my hand and squeezed it) trust me! Kuch nahi hoga...main hu na?
Unwillingly and still protesting at the back of my mind I went with him. He didn't ask me where I lived and figured my flat from the nameplates itself. As the elevator rose so did my heart beats. I protested silently again before he rang the doorbell.
Arjun: relax Riya, waise bhi tumhe badla lena haina, ab le lo. I'm sure unhe utna hi shock lagega jab tum khud unhe thukraogi
Before I could try and process his words in my mind, he rang the doorbell. Mom opened the door. Firstly, she was surprised to see me there because I was supposed to be with Manan, secondly she was confused to see Arjun sir there and thirdly...
Mom(shocked): Riya! Ye Sab Kya Hai? Gale Mein Mangalsutra, Maang Mein Sindoor...TUMHARA DIMAG KHARAB HO GAYA HAI?!?!?
I could hear my father call out: kya hua kyun chilla rahi ho?
Mom opened the door completely so he could see what had happened. He looked at me sternly and furiously clearly asking me for an explanation. Me? I was a statue. No words came out of my mouth but Arjun sir was not.
Arjun: are aunty chillaiye mat, lungs kharaab ho jaayenge, aur waise bhi apne daamad ko koi is tarah swaagat karta hai kya bhala?
Maa: DAMAAD?!?! Kya Bakwas Kar Rahe Ho?!?!?
Dad piped in: RIYA YE SAB KYA HO RAHA HAI??? MANAN KAHA HAI???
I felt the same vibes from him that I had on that fateful night. Arjun sir casually took me into the house.
Arjun: Manan toh ab nahi aayega, aapko mujhi se kaam chalana padega, (he turned to me) Riya saaman le lo apna, hume humare ghar bhi toh jaana hai
Dad: WOH KAHI NAHI JAAYEGI!!!...
He took a step towards me but...Arjun removed his gun in a totally unsubtle manner shutting him up. Mom and Dad turned even more furious.
Arjun: kya hua Riya? luggage le lo apne room se
I looked alternately between the three of them and slowly started taking my steps towards my room.
Mom tried to slap me: RIYA!!! AGAR...
Arjun sir loaded his gun and completed the sentence: kisine bhi tumhari taraf aankh bhi uthayi toh main use goli maar dunga...don't worry aunty. Use sab pata hai, tum jao Riya.
A sudden urge came into and I ran into my room. I pulled down a suitcase form above the cupboard and quickly packed my belongings. I wheeled the suitcase outside where my parents were giving Arjun sir death glares while he seemed unfazed and was playing around with his gun.
Dad: Riya! Kaan Kholkar Sun Lo Agar Tumne Is Ghar Ke Baahar Kadam Bhi Rakha Toh Samaj Lena Ki Tum Humare Liye Mar Gayi!!
Mom: Kuch Toh Sharam Karo! Agle Hafte Shaadi Hai Tumhari! Kya Jawab Denge Hum Sabko?? Kis Muh Se Sabka Saamna Karenge?? Tumhare Chakkar Mein Humari Bani Banayi Izzat Sab Khaak Mein Mil Jaayegi!!
Her statement fired me: Maarne Mein Aapne Koyi Kasar Chodi Hi Nahi Hai Dad, Isse Zyaada Marna Mujhe Gawara Nahi Hai Aur Rahi Baat Aapki Izzat Ki Toh Woh Kamayi Jaati Hai, Naa Ki Dusre Ke Bharose Chod Di Jaati Hai!!
I held Arjun sir's hand and left the house never to look back at it again. My parents were shocked. I had never talked back to them in such a way. Even couldn't I believe I had said all those words until I saw my hero smiling proudly at me.
He took me straight home then...to our home! I hesitated to step inside. At the end of it all, I had managed to get out of that deadly place but was I worth the heaven he wanted to give me? Would I able to keep him happy the way he had been my flare of light? Thousands of thoughts were running in my mind and I started having second thoughts about throwing my cigarettes away. I stood at the doorway lost in my thoughts.
As always he knew what I was thinking. He picked me up in his arms giving me a heart attack. I stared wide-eyed at him and got lost in his eyes which held the same emotion I had seen on that night. He stepped inside and seated me gently on the bed before going back for my luggage. When he came back he was talking on the phone with someone.
Arjun: mujhe inform karte rehte rehna, I'll get back to you as soon as I can (disconnecting the call, he sat next to me) Riya mujhe jaana hoga, 2-3 ghante mein waapis aa jaunga. Tum rest karo.
I didn't want him to leave. If he left I would be haunted by all my thoughts again, I knew it. For the 1st time in my life I wanted someone to stay beside me. No, not someone...I wanted HIM to stay beside me. He was the only security I had, my prince in shining armour.
Me: kya...kya aapka jaana...zaroori hai? (He looked at me) agar kuch important hai toh aap jayiye, I'll be fine.
He thought for a second and then settled to lie down beside me hugging me from the side: nahi, utna important bhi nahi hai ki subah na ho sake, kal ho jaayega
I smiled and snuggled closer to him embracing his warmth and he kissed my forehead as he gently patted me to sleep. It wasn't long before my nightmare haunted me again, I started shivering in my sleep causing Arjun sir to wake up. I kept muttering and shaking while still in my dream. But that night was different, all I remember was him hugging me tighter and whispering comforting words in my ear till the nightmare left me alone.
The next sunrise dawned my life as well. I stretched lazily as I woke up from the most peaceful sleep I had had in days. I was surprised to not find myself alone in the bed and sat back up with a start thinking all of it had been a dream but no...the room was different, the house was different and the black-beaded chain around my neck comforted me. I heaved a sigh of relief. Just then Arjun sir came out of the washroom.
Arjun: tum uth gayi? (before I could answer) chalo acha hua...tum fatafat ready ho jao, bahot zaroori kaam hai
I was drained of energy and literally in no mood to got to office: Sir...mera office jaane ka bilcul man nahi hai
Arjun(confused): tumhe office nahi jaana hai Riya, kal tumhara aakhri din tha?
I winced as pinched the bridge of my nose as I remembered my resignation. Tears formed in my eyes, I had lost my dream job...forever!
He wordlessly opened his cupboard and fished out an envelope. He sat beside me and cupped my face.
Arjun: hey...please upset mat ho. He handed over the envelope to me.
I looked at him confusingly. He gestured me to open it. I did as I was told and there it was...my resignation, unsigned by the Chief.
I looked at him in shock: ye...ye kaise?
Arjun: tumne mujhe apna resignation letter diya tha na Rathore ko dene ke liye?
I confessed sheepishly: ha...woh mujhe...sirf aapse baat karne ke liye bahana chahiye tha
He smiled: woh hum baad mein discuss kar lenge...toh maine tumhare resignation ke badle sirf ek leave application Rathore ko diya...ek mahine ka...u know till the time tumhari shaadi ho jaaye and stuff.
Me: lekin...kyun? Aur us par meri sign kaise aayi?
Arjun: mujhe pata tha tum jhut bol rahi thi lekin kyun? ye samajh mein nahi aaya shayad mujhe reject karne ke liye guilty feel kar rahi ho isliye office chod na chah rahi ho aur us, waqt mujhe is baare mein baat karna theek nahi laga. Maine socha ek baar tumhari shaadi ho jaaye aur tum settle ho jao baad mein baat karenge aur rahi baat tumhari signature ki toh woh...(embarrassed) maine...forge ki thi
I looked at him as if it was the first time I was seeing him. He could break rules for the greater good, I knew but for personal factors also?
Arjun(defensively): stop looking at me like that aur dekho acha hi hua na, warna tumhari job ka kya hota? Firse research desk, firse wahi ghisayi likhayi aur firse wahi mehnat ETF mein aane ke liye, I saved you so much time
I lowered my eyes: Aapne sirf mera waqt nahi, mujhe bhi bachaya hai warna apni zindgi toh barbaad kar hi di thi maine, shayad khud hi apni jaan...
Arjun: Riya please aise mat bolo...(holding my hands) main tumse pyaar karta hun aur pyaar mein kabhi sharte nahi hoti. I love you and You do too...bas, it's as simple as that! Koi external factors nahi koi variables nahi. Hum ek dusre ke saath rehna chahte hai aur ab bandhan mein bandh gaye hai, that's all that matters.
I hugged him tightly as my emotions overwhelmed me: I love you...a lot!
He caressed my back: I know Riya... I do too.
We stayed in the same position till the message alert of his phone disturbed us. I broke away wiping my tear allowing him to check his phone.
Arjun: okay, hume sach mein jaana chahiye, tum jaldi fresh ho jao
Me: par mera sach mein office...
Arjun: ha woh main samajh gaya par hum office nahi jaa rahe hai, hume kahi aur jaana hai aur tumhe mere saath aana hi hoga it's urgent!
Riya: lekin...
Arjun kissed her cheek: tum ready ho jao, tab tak mein naashta ready karta hun. And started walking out.
Me: par...he had already left before I could protest.
Having no other option I opened my suitcase for my essentials and got ready. By the time I went out he had a light breakfast already prepared with coffee exactly as per my taste and his usual cutting. I tried to know where we were going but he refused to tell me anything about it. We left after 20 minutes and were on our way to a destination known only to him. When we reached...
Me: hum police station kyun aaye hai?
Arjun: andar chalo pata chal jaayega.
The Inspector saluted him as we entered.
Arjun: kaam ho gaya?
Inspector: ha sir, aap ek dafa dekh lijiye
He nodded and gesture my to follow. The inspector lead us to the interrogation room. To my surprise, Manan was handcuffed to a chair and was even more bruised and beaten than Arjun sir had left him at the banquet hall.
Arjun: good job
Inspector: thank you sir, ayiye sir, main aapko uski statement dikhata hun
He lead us back to the main area to his desk and picked up a register. He flipped over to the last page and handed it to Arjun sir.
Arjun smiled as he read it: guess what? Tumhare pyaare se ex-fianc apna muh toh khol hi diya, saath-saath tumhare parent's ki pol bhi khol di
It was too hard to believe, I almost snatched the register from his hands to read it for myself. He was right, Manan had confessed everything!
Arjun(softly): uske confession se hum use saza toh de denge Riya lekin tum bhi jaanti ho ki sirf confession se saza tay nahi hoti, kisi na kisi ko official complaint file karni hogi, tabhi court use saza dega. Kya tum apna statement dogi? Manan, tumhare parents, teeno ko apne kiye ki saza milegi aur jo tum chahti thi woh bhi hoga. Tumhare parent's ka sar sharm se zaroor jhukega lekin...ye kanooni karwaahi karni hai ya nahi main tum par chodta hun, soch lo.
I hesitated for a second. Talking back and moving out of the house was one thing but court case? Against my own parents? But then...my ears started ringing again.
"Pata Nahi Kiski Sangat Ne Bhusa Bhar Diya Hai Iske Dimag Mein!
"use har haal mein khush rakhna tumhara farz hai
"tumhe jo karna hai karo
"hum nahi rokenge
I put my foot down: main statement dungi!
He beamed. I understood he wanted me to do the same and I did! I gave my statement and filed a case against the three of them. Mom and dad were going to get a lovely shock when they realised I did this. Their reputation was so going down the drain.
I left the police station much happier than I was when I entered it. Our hands entwined as we walked towards the car.
Me: ek baat kahu?
Arjun: kya Riya, shaadi ho gayi hai humari ab toh ye formality chodo. Ab tum aaram se mujhse baat kar sakti ho (teasing) tumhe bahane dhundhne ki zaroorat nahi padegi
I blushed. He had to bring up that topic again? Why had I confessed that?
Arjun: waise main ek batau? (I nodded lightly) main bhi jaan buchkar tumhe zyaada kaam deta tha taaki tumhe mujhse baar-baar milna pade
I stared at him in shock. He nodded his head confirming what I heard was correct. It took me a few seconds. He winked and cornered me to the car. I didn't even realise it, till his hands wrapped around my waist.
Me: aap...aapko...of...office nahi jaana? Late ho jaayega
Arjun: nahi Riya mujhe office nahi jaana, maine Rathore ko message karke leave le li hai
Me(shocked): oh God! Fir toh hume hospital jaana chahiye
Arjun(confused): kya?
Me: ha toh...Arjun aur leave, Leave aur Arjun sir...just imagine!!! Pakka sabko heart attack aa gaya hoga...ek baar tel aur paani mix ho sakta hai lekin aap aur leave? Imaginationally impossible!!!
He stared at me straight-faced as I tried to control my giggles.
Arjun: tum logon ko main itna khadoos lagta hun kya? Ki main ek chutti bhi nahi le sakta?
Me: ha toh? (he raised his eyebrow at me) Aapko woh case yaad hai? Chudail waala? Jab hum raat ko kile mein gaye the
Arjun: kaise bhul sakta hun, agle din tum teeno kavach, dhaaga aur pata nahi kya-kya baandh kar aaye the
I laughed: ha wahi waala toh na us raat ko Chotu bahot dar gaya tha, in fact Shree ne toh use suggestion bhi diya ki woh aapke saath raat ruk jaaye kyunki aapko dekh kar toh chudail bhi bhaag jaayegi toh pata hai Chotu ne kya kaha?...usne kaha ki woh aap ke saath rehne ke bajay toh chudail ke saath hi reh lega
He made a face and I burst out laughing. Then suddenly without any warning his arms moved to my neck and he leaned closer.
Arjun: un dono ko toh main baad mein dekh lunga, par tum batao tum kya karti?
I fumbled for words, completely understanding his meaning but I pretended to not do so: ma...matlab? Main...main kya karti? Mujhe thodi kuch karna tha?
Arjun: matlab yeh madam ki agar tumhe chance milta toh kya karti?
Me: kis...kis cheez...ka...chance?
Arjun: wahi...raat bhar mere saath rehne ka, aur kaunsa?
Me: woh...main...(I tried to focus on something other than his piercing and teasing eyes) main...umm...raat...mera matlab...( I confessed sheepishly) agar...agar kar paati toh...zaroor karti
I looked down at my feet as if something very interesting existed on them. He gently propped up my chin with his finger and kissed me softly...this time I didn't stop him. My heart leaped at the fact that I could feel his love without any restrictions now and threw my arms around him, holding him close sealing our fate together...
And that was my redemption, right there, in his arms!
Now? We are happily married and in our own world filled with love since 5 years. Arjun made sure that Manan and my parents got the punishment they deserved And the punishment that I wished for them, and me? I never looked back at them...EVER!!!
The doorbell brought Riya out of her past. She got up and went to open the door knowing exactly who was at the door. A smiling face greeted her as she opened the door. They were about to hug when a 3 year old ran upto him. Riya closed the door behind them.
Boy: Papa!!!
He smiled and bent to hug him: Dev! (he kissed his cheek) kaisa tha tumhara din?
Dev: ekdum mast!
Arjun squinted: by the waise kya main jaan sakta hun ki tum 10:30 tak jaag kyun rahe ho?
Dev: oho Papa! Kal Saturday hai! Mujhe toh already itni neend aa rahi hai lekin aap ki aane ki raah dekh raha tha aur waise bhi mujhe aapki aur mumma ki tarah thodi hafton ke saare din office jaana padta hai woh bhi 10-10 ghante ke liye meri school toh sirf 5 din hoti hai woh bhi sirf 6 ghante aur bahot saari holidays bhi milti hai, Good night! Bye mumma!
And he runs away to his room. Arjun raises his eyebrows and gets up.
Arjun: okay! (turning towards his wife) tumhe nahi lagta ye apni umar se kuch zyaada hi bolta hai?
Riya laughed and hugged him: ab khoon hi aisa hai toh kya kar sakte hai
Arjun: ha waise bhi bete mein maa ka khoon hi zyaada hota hai
Riya hit him playfully: Arjun!!!
He laughed and embraced her.
Riya: meeting kaisi thi aapki?
Arjun: wahi same...boring! Itna pakka hu na pucho mat, main aur Rathore toh sunte-sunte hi bore ho gaye lekin commissioner sir bolte-bolte nahi thakte...itni speech maarne ka shauk aata kaha se logon ko?
Riya(giggling): acha woh sab chodiye...aap haath-muh dho lijiye main khaana lagati hun
Arjun nodded and left after kissing her cheek. She went to the kitchen. Riya re-heated the food and was serving it in the plate when Arjun hugged her from behind.
Arjun: aha...mera favourite
He took the plate and settled on the kitchen counter and gestured her to sit next to him which she did.
Riya: are baahar toh chaliye
Arjun(eating): chodo na, hum dono hi toh hai
She shook her head and started eating from the same plate. They finished their dinner while talking about random things and her asking him questions about the day's case as usual.
Arjun: main ek baar Dev ko dekh leta hun
Riya nodded as she cleared up. She joined him in the bedroom after finishing her work.
Riya: so gaya aapka shaitaan?
Arjun kept his file on the side and pulled her on the bed: ha...ekdum shaanti se, mujhe lagta hai seedha jaakar so gaya, light bhi off nahi ki thi
Riya snuggled into him: aur koi keh raha tha thi mera khoon hai
Arjun: are maine kab aisa kiya?
Riya(incredulously): Arjun abhi do din pehle hum raat ko raid maarne gaye the aur aap thakkar seedha bed pe so gaye, light chodo joote bhi nahi nikaale the aapne
Arjun: are chodo na tum woh sab. And he rolls over to get on top of her
Riya: acha? Aapki baari aayi toh chodo?
Arjun(teasingly): nahi...meri baari toh chal hi rahi hai
And before she could process what he said he kissed her and switched off the lights drowning her in his eternal elixir...
The End
CID
